Hadith #2237

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Al-hasud wal-haqoodu la tadumu lahumas-sarrah.

This Hadith highlights the consequences of jealousy and spitefulness, stating that happiness does not endure for those who possess these traits.

Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. "Al-hasud" refers to the one who is jealous, harboring ill feelings towards others due to their blessings, possessions, or achievements. "Wal-haqood" refers to the spiteful person, one who holds grudges and seeks revenge against others. "La tadumu" means that happiness does not last or endure, and "lahumas-sarrah" refers to the happiness or joy that is short-lived.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the destructive nature of jealousy and spitefulness in several verses. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12), Allah says,

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions, spying, and backbiting, which are often fueled by jealousy and spite. Allah compares such actions to consuming the flesh of one's brother, highlighting the repulsiveness of these behaviors. Jealousy and spitefulness lead to the destruction of relationships and the spreading of negativity, causing harm to both the individual harboring these traits and those around them.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:76), Allah says,

Indeed, Qarun was from the people of Moses, but he tyrannized them. And We gave him of treasures whose keys would burden a band of strong men; thereupon his people said to him, 'Do not exult. Indeed, Allah does not like the exultant.'

This verse narrates the story of Qarun, who was blessed with immense wealth and possessions. However, his jealousy and arrogance led him to oppress his people. Despite his temporary happiness and material wealth, Allah warns against exulting in such blessings. This serves as a reminder that true happiness does not come from worldly possessions but from contentment and gratitude.

Reflecting upon the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that jealousy and spitefulness are detrimental to one's own well-being and happiness. When we harbor jealousy towards others, we become consumed by negative thoughts and emotions, preventing us from experiencing true joy and contentment. Similarly, when we hold grudges and seek revenge, we create a cycle of negativity that hinders our own growth and happiness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the consequences of jealousy and spitefulness. By highlighting the fleeting nature of happiness for those who possess these traits, he encourages us to cultivate positive qualities such as gratitude, contentment, and goodwill towards others. True happiness lies in appreciating our own blessings and celebrating the success and happiness of others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to avoid jealousy and spitefulness. By reflecting upon the Quranic verses that warn against these negative traits, we understand the importance of cultivating positive qualities and fostering a sense of unity and goodwill within the Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) protect us from the destructive effects of jealousy and spitefulness and grant us lasting happiness in this world and the Hereafter.